Getting to know the Haitian history: Haitian Flag Day

As a celebration of their independence and national pride, Haitians celebrate their Flag Day on May 18th each year. The Haitian flag is a symbol of their fight for freedom and their country's rich history. The blue and red colors represent the unity of the country's black and mulatto populations, while the white square in the center symbolizes the purity of their intentions and the bright future they hope to create. The day is marked with parades, music, and dancing, and Haitians around the world take part in the festivities. It is a time to reflect on their past struggles and triumphs and to look forward to a future of hope and progress. Despite the challenges that Haiti has faced over the years, its people remain resilient and proud, and Flag Day is a celebration of that spirit

Observance

The day is observed and celebrated by Haitians living in and outside of Haiti. The grounds of the national palace in Haiti are the center of celebrations in the country. Whereas, Haitian residing in other countries honor the flag and the struggle that it symbolizes. Every year, on the last Sunday of May, a Haitian Day Parade is organized that goes down the Toussaint Louverture Boulevard (also known as Nostrand Avenue) in New York City. The parade was started by the Haitian-American Carnival Association in 2002 and is followed by a festival celebrating Haitian culture, including its music and food.

Other cities that observe the celebrations include Boston which commemorates the struggles during the Haitian Heritage Month in May each year. Floridian cities such as Miami, Tampa, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Fort Myers also have events that promote Haitian culture. Miami's MOCA Plaza celebrations are famous for featuring prominent Haitian-American celebrities, artists, musicians, entertainers, and political personalities. This year, the Haitian American Partnership for Positive Actions RI presents its 21st Annual Haitian Flag Day Rhode Island Festival this Sunday, May 21, from 12-6 pm at Roger Williams Park Zoo. There will be food, music, and performances to celebrate the Haitian culture.